For thousands of years, Greece’s mighty mythical gods and goddesses have woven their magical stories into the framework of Greek culture. These were dramatic, powerful myths which entertained while giving memorable life-lesson messages. I wondered if they are still alive living amongst the locals in Greece’s mountainous terrain!
It seems one may have given me a little magic on my flight from Toronto to Athens. The Air Canada plane I flew on was a huge one, 7 seats across with 51 rows. I was hoping for a window seat, I was given that. Thanks!
My plan was to crash course a few Greek phrases on the flight. Soon a very polite young man sat down in the seat next to me and gave me a little bit more magic. He happened to be a Greek living in Pennsylvania on the way to visit his parents in Athens. A student studying computer science…a Greek geek! During the long trip, he kindly helped me with Greek-speak phrases. A wonderful beginning to my new journey. Thanks again, whomever you are, Greek god!
I had searched online for a hotel near the airport to rest before my journey. The Mare Ostrum Hotel Thalasso was the only one nearest. It was a 20 minute ride by taxi and a beautiful side-trip through the countryside.
When I arrived early afternoon, I was very surprised that mostly everyone spoke French, not Greek! It turned out that this hotel is a favorite resort for the French people. The woman at the counter who was in charge, Julia, spoke English, French and Greek fluently.
So tired and suffering badly from jet lag, I took a nap. I awoke at 5:30pm and was very hungry. Time for dinner. Not so here! The dining room was empty and people were just lounging around after the days activities of swimming, boating and whatever. Had a summer fruit drink from the bar, sat outside on the patio and just enjoyed the sunny blue skies and ocean breeze. 93 degrees, feels like 91!
Later around 8:30 pm everything came alive. Waiters were setting tables with fancy drinks and two women singers with guitars started to sing French songs. People were streaming in, and so did I. Men in tuxedo dress served appetizers on trays and people began to dance to the music.
Later the hotel owner, his staff, and head chef were introduced. Everyone clapped in appreciation and left for the nearby dinning room where a huge buffet had been set up. It was a lavish French style dinner buffet! All complimentary for guests.
What a wonderful, surprise evening! Thank you again, Mr. Greek god, or Ms?!
Breakfast was just as amazing. A complimentary French breakfast buffet…some same as American, but most very Frenchie. No syrup with pancakes. Instead a huge bowl of honey with a honey dip stick, bowls of cinnamon, sugar, and other sides I wasn’t familiar with. Always, loaves of freshly baked French bread to cut your pieces from!! More thanks!!
I wonder what other exciting surprises mystical Greece has in store for me on my journey to Vonitsa?
Arley Harriman